Surfing
Brigitte started taking photographs at a young age, inspired by her grandfather. In her twenties, she travelled the globe and discovered her passion for landscape and street photography, be it colour or BnW. Today, she is also experimenting with abstract approaches.
Her photography has been exhibited physically and virtually at galleries and fairs in the UK, the US, the EU, Switzerland, Canada, Japan, and more. It has been published in international art magazines and has received awards, among which are a first prize at HMVC gallery, NY, a second place at DecagonGallery, NY, a bronze award at Pispa,2 nominations at reFocusAwards, and a gold winner at the London Photography Awards.
Creating is a drive; photography is my path. My way to express my vision, my emotions, my thoughts, my ever-fleeting feelings. My favoured approaches are landscape, street, and abstract photography, be it colour or BnW. My aim is to represent Life as it is, in any form, anywhere in nature, in cities as seen through my eyes. When going for a shoot, I am in an almost meditative state, which allows me to be calm and alert to any changes in light, in movement, or otherwise. My photography is spontaneous, candid, unpredictable, as Life can be.
When my eyes, my heart, and my soul are at one, aligned, I might come up with a story. A story to be shared with the viewer.
Surveillance
Yaqi Wang is an illustrator and visual artist based in London, currently studying Print at the Royal College of Art. Her work embodies a blend of mechanical, science fiction, and fantasy elements, delving into the dynamic relationship between technology and humanity. In her early twenties, she studied Literature and Translation, eventually participating in the translation of Water Sleeps, the eighth book in Glen Cook’s renowned fantasy series The Black Company, a work by the acclaimed American fantasy and science fiction author. This translation was published in Chinese in September 2024.
During her two years in real estate marketing from 2019 to 2021, she was greatly inspired by architecture and spatial design. These experiences encouraged her to draw inspiration from literary narratives and spatial relationships, allowing her artistic practice to focus more on the magical interactions between characters and their environments.
Before the age of 28, I had no formal training in painting. After that, I embarked on a journey of self-education in digital painting for two years, followed by a structured study of painting techniques. This led me to experiment continuously with traditional media such as watercolors, acrylics, and charcoal, alongside printmaking. I also incorporated mixed media, utilizing collage and PVC, and employed techniques involving geometric elements, curved lines, contrasts of light and shadow, spatial segmentation, and repetition.
My work seeks to create worlds that are rich in science fiction, retro aesthetics, and magical realism. Through this artistic exploration, I aim to examine the intricate relationship between technology and humanity, ultimately striving to awaken a deeper sense of humanistic concern within the audience.
Surveillance
Joseph Willoughby, a 26-year-old artist hailing from Burnley, UK and currently residing in Toronto, Canada, is a creative force to be reckoned with. Although he initially embarked on a 6-year journey studying Architecture, Joseph ultimately found his calling in the realm of art. It was during a period of grief and heartache following the loss of his father in 2018 that Joseph sought solace and self-expression through his artistic endeavors. For the past 5 years, Joseph has skillfully channeled his emotions into captivating visual symbols, utilizing his unique talent to explore the intricacies of life. Through his paintings and drawings, he masterfully manipulates still-life objects to convey profound messages. His work delves deep into the challenges faced by society and the core beliefs that shape our individuality, offering an alternative perspective on the complexities of modern life. Seamlessly blending digital and traditional techniques, Joseph’s artistry knows no bounds.
‘Echoes of Tomorrow’ comprises a collection of acrylic paintings, derived from the manipulation of overlooked or forgotten objects in our contemporary society. Rooted in the influences of consumerism and the urban landscape, this series acts as a visual portal, offering glimpses into potential future scenarios should we choose to embrace transformative change.
I consistently situate subjects against a white backdrop, directing attention to the canvas center. Within this space, commonplace objects transform into realistic yet familiar entities, prompting viewers to reflect on their current trajectories rather than merely predicting a predetermined future. Using collage and post-digital editing techniques, I leverage the commonality of advertising and media to craft a series that portrays a disquieting yet plausible future.
‘Echoes of Tomorrow’ initiates a dialogue on societal anxieties about the imminent future, fostering conversations on reflection and progression. The narrative embedded in these works seeks to challenge our collective actions on a broader societal scale, urging a fresh perspective on how we navigate and consume information in our lives.
Suspended Disbelief
Megan Emily Ely (Elyiara Studio) is a mystical surrealist artist exploring themes of magic and the mysteries of the universe through her prolific imagination. Inspired by fairytales, magic, nature, and her own childhood, her work aims to spark feelings of wonder and mysticism and invites the viewer to create their own narratives from her imaginative visions.
With a distinguished career as a Design Director in New York’s fashion and prestige beauty worlds, Megan now brings her refined creative vision into both her fine art and her ongoing consulting work with luxury and design-forward brands.
Her work has been showcased in highly regarded galleries and shows across the globe, notably the Clio Art Fair in NYC, Poetic Tiger, Curio Art Gallery, The Bendheim Gallery in Greenwich, and the Gracie Square Art Show in NYC.
Megan donates a portion of her proceeds to animal rescue and mental health organizations.
Affiliations:
Advisor to the board- Greenwich Arts Council, Greenwich, CT
Artist Member & Curator- Saint Marks Arts, NYC
Gallery Committee Member – Rye Arts Center, Rye, NY
Elected Member- Essex Art Association, Essex, CT
Member- Lyme Art Association, Old Lyme, CT
#Horse Protector Sponsor- EQUUS Foundation
In addition to original pieces, prints, and merchandise, Megan does custom commissions, illustration, concept and product design, and styling.
My work is mystical surrealism, blending surrealist and fantasy themes of magic, symbolism, nature, and animals to explore the unknown mysteries of the universe. My inspiration comes to me through imaginative visions and dreams. Each piece I view as a portal where the viewer gets a glimpse into an otherworldly scene, leaving space for their own imagination to fill in the blanks.
I have always had a deep connection to the surreal and unusual but also beautiful, and have been creating art with these themes since childhood. My imagination has been my strongest asset- it’s served as a safe haven during difficult times, and a powerful way to alchemize reality, transforming it into something extraordinary and special that I’m grateful to experience and share.
I primarily work in oil paint for its ability to create ethereal, blended effects and emotional tone. While I use realism heavily, I also combine other techniques such as contemporary impressionism, abstract elements, and sometimes mixed media or sculpture into pieces. My background as a design director greatly informs my use of color, composition, and beauty.
Through these dreamlike narratives, I strive to invoke feelings of magic, wonder, and hope for the viewer, and an escape from the mundane.
Suzanne In The Garden
Sylvia Bandyke, Royal Oak, MI, USA, is largely a self-taught photographer, having taken studio and art history classes in college. She began her art career by displaying photo collages in ArtPrize, an independent international art competition in Grand Rapids, MI, from 2014 to 2018. Subsequently, she has been juried into more than 100 group exhibitions in 24 states and accepted into numerous online international exhibitions. An awarded artist, she keeps an eye open for interesting views of a subject while looking for hidden beauty every day. Most recently, she was a caregiver to her elderly mother and was able to create some memorable, unique art as a result of this experience.
I prefer using the collage format to integrate associated images into a cohesive unit that is even more compelling because of the embedded story. Having been a playwright and technical writer, I am accustomed to delivering content with a message. So now, as a visual communicator, I continue to provide meaning via the structure of the collage format, wherein the four photos confirm, augment, or even contradict each other if warranted. I enjoy offering the richness that the multiplicity of images provides, along with the impact gained through thoughtful positioning of them. Ultimately, I intend to have my work act as a doorway to the viewer’s own mental and emotional framework regarding the collection of images, perhaps finding their own very personal meaning in them.
Swan
Susan Brinkmann was born in Southampton (United Kingdom) in 1963. When she was seven years old, her family moved to the Netherlands, where she still lives and works. After studying at the Academy of Arts in Tilburg, Susan soon specialized in realistic portrait drawing, and now receives international portrait commissions.
Her work has been exhibited in both solo- and group exhibitions in the Netherlands, United Kingdom, Belgium, and Greece, and has been published in many international art magazines and books.
“Creating art, for me, is about studying my subjects profoundly and showing what lies beneath the surface. Many people say that I show the actual ‘soul’ of my subjects in my portraits, which is my primary target. To see, and show what lies below the surface, or ‘under the skin’. It has to be more than just a good likeness of my subject, and more than an illustration. My artwork is highly realistic, many say photo realistic. Artists’ quality colored pencils are my main medium. When making portraits, I use pencils or graphite, because they allow a high degree of detail.”
Swan Dreaming
Brigitte currently lives in Switzerland. She is a self-taught photographer inspired by her grandfather as a child; thus, she chose to bear his name as an artist to honour him. Travelling the globe with an analog camera in her twenties, she gained experience in landscape, travel, and street life photography. Nowadays, she is also experimenting with other approaches, like abstract and macro, and is shooting digital. Her work has been published in several art magazines. Two of which are special editions about her artwork at Docu Magazine. Her photography was exhibited physically and virtually in the UK, the USA, Italy, Greece, Spain, Switzerland, Canada, and the West Indies. One of her main exhibitions was at Artexpo New York in April 2025 and at ArtBasel in June.
Her photography has been distinguished with several mentions and a first prize from HMVC Gallery.
She is also working on three projects, which will take several years. The aim is to publish a book.
I started with photography as a child. My grandfather used to take pictures, and I was fascinated. To honour him, my artist’s name is his, thus B.B. Burckhardt. I shot with film, color, bnw, spent hours in the dark room, and took my camera with me while travelling around the globe in my twenties. After a life-changing event, photography came back into my life. I felt the need to create, and the passion grew even stronger than before.
Nowadays, I shoot almost daily, and it feels like being back on the road. My interests are mainly landscape, street life, and abstract photography. Landscape and Abstract as moments of peace of mind, my eyes are amazed by the beauty of nature. Soothing my soul. Street life was moments of exhilaration, being ready at any minute to shoot a scene that caught my eye. A scene of life, of youth, of the ordinary, of joy (of despair sometimes). A scene I am drawn to by my emotions, thus mostly candid. My photographs tell a story; the point is to share it with the viewer.
For Creativity Unbound, I chose to submit two photographs taken with the ICM technique. Thus, they are abstract photographs.
Swan Splash
I am a self-taught artist who has had a love of art since the age of 5. My mother encouraged me to pursue this love by giving me drawing pencils and sketchbooks. Over the years, I always worked full-time in the graphic and advertising arts, photography, and printing fields. Upon retirement about 6 years ago, I found that I finally could explore my love of art full-time and develop my skills and my talent to its fullest form.
I have lived in Florida most of my life and am truly inspired to capture the beauty of its wildlife, especially the birds, on canvas to share with the world. I participated in the outdoor art shows throughout Florida for about 3 years. It was during this time that my health took a turn, and I was unable to continue doing the outdoor shows. And after fully recovering from my health this year, I am proceeding to develop my artistic career.
Art is not merely a profession for me; it is a vital expression of my individuality. My artistic working style drives me to continually seek new avenues for creativity, pushing the boundaries of my imagination while remaining attuned to the needs of the painting at hand. I thrive in environments that encourage original thought and allow the freedom to innovate, creating unique visual narratives that resonate with audiences.
Sweathearts Shadow
I was born and educated in New York City, predominantly in the borough of Queens. I graduated from Queens College with a B.A. in Anthropology and an M.S. Ed. in Art Education. I also obtained a Certificate of Art from The New York Academy of Art. I have been an art teacher in New York City public schools and in private schools, and a high school Special Education teacher. I am currently retired and focusing on my art.
EXHIBITIONS:
Workshop 13, 13 Church St, Ware, MA 01082, Sept. 20-Oct.26, 2025; April 19–May 25, 2025
Kelwood Contemporary Art, 8202, Kelwood Ave, Baton Rouge, LA 70806, July -Aug. 2025
Gallery 40, 40 Cannon Street, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601, July 3-27, 2025
Springfield Art Association,700 North 4th Street, Springfield, IL 62702, June 6-June 30, 2025
Rockaway Artists Alliance, 114-04 Beach Channel Dr., Rockaway, NY 11694 May- July 2025
The Firefly Artists, 90 Main Street, Northport, NY, April 16–May 13, 2025
Schweinfurth Art Center, 205 Genesee St., Auburn, NY 13021, April 4-May 17, 2025
Kavanaugh Gallery, 37 W570 Bolcum Rd, St. Charles, IL 60175, February-March 20, 2025,
Memento Mori Gallery & Tattoo, 6451 W Colfax Ave., Lakewood, CO 80214, February 2025
Webster Arts Gallery, 2 Summit Avenue, Webster, Groves, MO 63119, January 3-31, 2025
Hudson Valley MOCA, 1701 Main Street, Peekskill, NY 10566, February 2-May 3, 2025
The Gallery @ Arts Illiana, 23 North 6th Street, Terre Haute, IN 47807, February-April 2025
Cape Fear Studios, Inc, 148 Maxwell Street, Fayetteville, North Carolina 28301
MVA Gallery, 35 E. Elizabeth Avenue, Bethlehem, PA 18018; Sept.-Oct. 2024, Sept. 2021
Rocky Mountain National Watermedia Exhibition, Evergreen, CO, Sept.–Oct. 2024
Cogri Clay Art Center, 15 Tech Parkway, Stafford, VA 22566, June 9-July 28, 2024
Shockboxx, Finger Lickin’ Good, Hermosa Beach, CA, May 18-Jun8, 2024
Connecticut Soc. of Portrait Artists,140 Atlantic Ave., Stamford, CT, 06901, May- June 2024
VMRC, Virginia, May 26-June 28, 2024, 1491 Virginia Avenue, Harrisonburg, VA 22802
Transmission Gallery, Pint Size 2770 West Grand Ave, Oakland, CA 94612, April-June 2024;
Cooper House Mansion on the University of Wyoming, Laramie, April, 2024
Tarleton State University, 1333 W. Washington St., Stephenville, TX 76402; April 6-21, 2024
Covet Art Gallery, 1922 South Coast Hwy, Oceanside, CA 92054, Jan.-Feb., 2024
Art Council of Gainsboro, 139 W Walnut St., Goldsboro, NC 27530, Nov.– Dec. 2023
Art League of R.I., 80 Fountain St., Suite 107A, Pawtucket, RI 02860, Oct.- Nov. 2023
Culture Lab LIC, 5-25 46th Avenue, L.I.C., NY, September 16-October 29, 2023;
Bowery Gallery, 547 W. 27 Street, New York, NY 10001, August 1-19, 2023;
View Center for Arts & Culture. 3273 State Route 28, Old Forge, NY 13420, June-July, 2023
Jones Gallery, 1717 Walnut, Kansas City, Missouri 64108, January 2023
Pour-d Gallery, 39 Courtland St, Rockford, Michigan 49341, September 3-Novenber 4, 2022
BWAC Gallery, 482 Van Brunt Street, Brooklyn, NY, July 3, 2021-August 15, 2021
I was born with a crayon in my hand and began drawing human figures on my bedroom walls almost immediately. My obsession with depicting the human figure, clothed or unclothed, has not ceased since then, but now I primarily use oil paint. Also, the rich and vibrant colors I was drawn to as a child have not faded over time. I have added to my initial childhood attempt,s facial expressions and the importance of stance to my subjects with as much simplicity as possible. I have also expanded my subject matter beyond the human figure, on occasion